Jamaica is celebrating 60 years of Independence this year, and activities are already underway across the island. If you’re wondering what to do in Kingston, we’ve got you. We have a breakdown of some activities you can check out in Kingston on Emancipation Day, during the week, and on Independence Day.

Schedule of Activities for Jamaica Diamond Jubilee in Kingston

Jamaica 60 Ecumenical Church Service: The church service will be held at Boulevard Baptist Church on Sunday, 31 July 2022.

Emancipation Watch Night in the Village and viewing of Seville Jubilee: Head to the National Indoor Sports Centre at 4:30pm, Sunday 31 July 2022, and get ready to view the Emancipation Jubilee happening at the Seville Heritage Park in St Ann.

Augus Markit: The National Indoor Sports Centre opens at 6am on Emancipation Day (1 August) for a special Augus Markit. Get there early so you don’t miss out on any deals!

Jamaica 60 Independence Float and Street Parade: The float and street parade start at 10am on 1 August at Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre on Hope Road. The route for the parade leaves Ranny Williams for Half Way Tree, then moves to Oxford Road, turns onto Tom Redcam, and culminates at the car park inside the National Stadium. So, put on your national colours, grab your camera, and capture the spectacular moments!

Jamaica Festival Queen Coronation: The Jamaica Festival Queen competition is a historical event that started in 1963 as a beauty contest. The competition has evolved into a premier platform where culturally aware, poised, and intelligent, young ladies can contribute to nation-building. This year’s event starts at 4:30pm on 1 August inside the National Indoor Sports Centre.

Old Skool Dancehall: Old School dancehall lovers are in for a treat as the National Indoor Sports Centre takes patrons back in time with dancehall vibes on Tuesday 2 August starting at 8pm.

Mello-Go-Roun: The week of activities continues at the National Indoor Sports Centre with Mello-Go-Roun on Wednesday 3 August at 8pm. Mello-Go-Roun is a cultural experience for the entire family, so don’t miss out on the fun!

Jamaica Praise Gospel Concert: With celebrating 60 years of Independence, the praise gospel concert is welcomed by many. This event starts at 8pm inside the National Indoor Sports Centre on Thursday 4 August.

Independence Watch Night in the Village: The Independence Diamond Jubilee marks a significant milestone in Jamaica’s history. Join in on this historical occasion to herald 60 years of Independence under the theme, Reigniting a Nation for Greatness, at the National Indoor Sports Centre on Friday 5 August at 8pm.

Jamaica 60 Grand Gala: The grand gala is a spectacular cultural showcase featuring music, song, drama, and dance performances. The grand gala is at the National Stadium on Saturday 6 August at 6pm. You can get tickets at Spring Plaza, Portmore Pines, JCDC (offices island wide), World Net Microfinancing branches (Montego Bay), and Sangster’s Bookstore (Cross Roads). Tickets will also be available at the Jamaica 60 Independence Village (National Stadium). The gala will also be on television and streamed online.

Jamaica 60 Independence Street Dance: An island wide street dance takes place on 6 August to celebrate Jamaica’s Diamond Jubilee.

For more information on Jamaica 60 events, check the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter), Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter), and the Ministry of Tourism’s (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) social media platforms and websites.

Sources: Jamaica Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport (FB), JIS, JTB, and Jamaica Observer.